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Thursday, June 9, 2011

When Blogging Gets You Down

Well thanks so much for all of the wonderful comments on my black door disaster project! You all are the sweetest. I’m pretty smitten with it, and I am SO relieved for a happy ending. ;)

About three weeks ago I celebrated three years of blogging – and by celebrated I mean I went “Wow, it’s been THREE years?” in my head.

I could have at least made a cupcake to celebrate. Or a cookie. SOMETHING. :)

I was going to write a post and share what I’ve learned about blogging in the past three years, but the more I thought about it, them more it morphed into this post.

There are so many ways I have been blessed by blogging – I won’t go into all of them here, but if you’ve read for awhile you know the opportunities that have come my way (like a a cutie TV host who liked my blog), the wonderful people I’ve met, the fun places I’ve been and the inspiration and love I get from all of you on a daily basis. It’s priceless.

But at least once every few days I see how it can take it’s toll on bloggers and readers. Reading and writing blogs can be completely overwhelming – it doesn’t matter what side of it you’re on. Sometimes my mind positively spins with the ideas. Many nights I lay awake, not able to turn off my brain.

The blog world is a wondrous one with some of the most beautiful people ever. But if you’re not careful, it also comes with feelings of insecurity, jealousy and resentment.

After three years under my belt, I still feel all of those more often than I like to admit – but I’ve found ways to deal with them that work for me.

So on my three year anniversary three weeks late, I wanted to share them with you. :)

The Numbers Game

As a blogger, it’s oh-so-hard to not make it all about the NUMBERS. If you blog, youknowwhatI’msayin’.

Followers, subscribers, readers, fans, friends, rankings, analytics, comments, page views…I could go on and on. On any given day there are at least ten ways I can check to see my “status” in the blog world. It’s absolutely overwhelming.

So I figured out how to avoid stressing about them.

I don’t look.

Serious as a heart attack. Yes, I look randomly. I check stats once a month, usually. Every couple of weeks I look to see how many Twitter followers I have. Once a week I’ll look to see what posts had more comments than others. But I do not look every day.

I value my sanity. Because if I look at mine – I know how I compare with other blogs.

And that’s where it gets ya! :)

The Numbers (capitalized because they are just that powerful) can totally mess with your head.

It makes me feel all why-didn’t-my-post-get-that-response? and why-did-my-page-views-drop?? and oh-my-gosh-I-must-tweet-more-so-I-can-get-more-tweeps-on-Twitter!!!!

Panicky. Anxious. Unsure. Questioning how I do what I do.

In general…ICKY.

I hate it. Sure, I keep hoping that I’ll evolve into this incredibly mature woman who doesn’t let that bother me – but I’m 35 and it’s still going strong.

It’s normal people – human nature.

But if you let it, it will take over and suck your mojo and your energy and your vibrancy and your creativity. You’ll do things because you think someone else will like it, not because you do. Your blog will become something you have to work at instead of something that flows out of you and that’s FUN. (It really, really should be fun. Really.)

I never want to be a slave to my blog. I want it to continue to be my escape, my inspiration, my dream job come true. (And in turn, not work.)

So…I don’t look. I know, I know, some of you are thinking – but she’s got all those followers, she doesn’t need to look. But someone is ALWAYS bigger than me – better at it, dedicating more time to it. If I kept track, I know myself and know I would let it overwhelm me. I feel like my blog is where it’s at now because I focus so little on those numbers and more about what I’m putting on your computer screen.

The Grass is Greener

As a reader, I know that green-eyed monster rears it’s head often. We’re inundated with gorgeous, well-styled photos. That’s part of the deal – most of the time, I want to see pretty pictures, not your husband’s socks on the floor. I’m guessing that’s what you want too. (If not, tell me and I show you my husband’s socks more often.)

But after seeing the “perfection” day in and day out, it can leave us feeling less than…well, just less than. You know what I mean.

DIY/decorating bloggers aren’t usually sharing the crappy, annoying things that happen in life on a day to day basis. And sometimes not even the really sad or bad things. Personally I struggle with how much to put out there. Because I share so much of my home and life, I feel like I need to hold back a little with our personal lives. (One of the many reasons I rarely show my son on this blog – I need to keep some of “me” private.)

In general, I’m just a happy person. I hate being in a bad mood – HATE IT. Being depressed makes me…well…depressed. (Brilliant. I know.)

I know the good are the parts that show through and the lives of bloggers can seem so perfect. Thing is – my life is perfect FOR ME. I guarantee you it’s not perfect for you. Promise. Cross my heart. I love our live with a deep, intense passion. I wouldn’t change a thing – good or bad – and it’s what works for us.

But it’s probably not your version of a perfect life. And the longer I do this, the more I find out that very few bloggers have the life that comes across on their blog. It’s not because they’re trying to mislead anyone either – it’s just a matter of being a positive person, and balancing how much they share with the world.

I told you a long time ago how I found out something about a blogger I used to be SO jealous of and it completely changed my view of her. I realized her life wasn’t perfect – even though it appeared that way. And she wasn’t trying to fake us out in any way. It was just a personal thing she chose not to disclose. Her life was not perfect, even though it appeared that way sometimes.

Basically -- there’s always more than the pretty pictures. It doesn’t always mean there’s strife in their lives – it just means the not-perfect stuff is not always put out there, for numerous reasons.

I know it’s hard to think of it that way sometimes, but I try to remember that when I feel the jealously coming on.

The Haters

Someone will hate your house.

Someone will point out all of your grammar mistakes.

Someone will comment on your parenting skills, having never met you and never known you.

Someone will hate your style.

Someone will be livid because you choose to make money off your blog.

Someone will be positively horrible, mean, nasty. About decorating? (Huh?!)

It’s endless. I’ve gotten them all. All of them sting, feel like a punch to the gut, some bring on tears.

All, in the end, are borne out of frustration, jealously, anger, boredom, exhaustion or just plain sadness.

No matter how much they hurt, remember that.

There have been so many times I’ve not liked a project as I surf around blogland. I don’t leave nasty, or even negative comments. If I don’t like it, I move on. I will never understand why some don’t.

You need a tough skin to be a blogger – especially if you’re sharing your home or your life. Eventually, the longer you blog, the bigger you get, it’s going to happen.

It’s no secret I delete nasty comments. I know it riles some people up. (Buwhahahaha!!) I don’t care. It’s my blog, it’s my home. Leaving nasty comments up invites kind of a group think reaction – people will read through to find the one person that even slightly agrees with them, and then they feel bold enough to leave (an anonymous) comment.

I spend a LOT of time on my projects, my house and my blog. I believe that deserves respect, plain and simple.

I don’t think it’s the right response for everybody – it’s just how I chose to deal with the nasties. If I leave a mean comment up, it festers and grows and weighs on me. Once it’s gone, POOF!, it’s gone, out of my heart and my mind.

And I don’t delete them all – it depends on my mood. If I’m feeling feisty that day I’ll leave it up. :) (And sometimes Blogger catches them and sends them to spam so I don’t have to do it.)

It works for me. It’s how I deal. It’s how I focus on doing what I do. The fun stuff, the stuff I love!

All this being said – there’s definitely something to be said about keeping track of where you’re at as a blogger. The Numbers can give you a kick in the booty you may need, they may spur on a competitiveness that can be a GOOD thing.

Feeling some jealously of other homes and other lives may inspire you to do more in your home. It may spur you on to change something in your life for the better. Those are good things.

And even the nastiest comment teaches me something. With each one, I appreciate my perfect-for-me life more and more. And that is a VERY good thing. ;)

Did I miss anything? Have you felt this way about blogging or reading blogs? (Hello, you are human.) How do you deal with it, as a reader or as a blogger?

Love you bunches Squeezies – thanks for a fantastic three years and here’s to many more!! WHOO!!

Oh, I am SO with you. I had a pretty successful beauty blog for 5 years and this stuff weighed on my mind ALL THE TIME. I dealt with nasty commenters who called me emaciated, anorexic, fat, and ugly (all different comments, from the same exact photo)...I was told that I deserved to be dumped by my boyfriend...and when I took a break from blogging people used my comments section to make jokes about how I probably died.

I developed a pretty thick skin, but every now and then someone would find a new and exciting way to insult me and it would totally ruin my day.

And the stats thing, and keeping up with other bloggers...ugh. After a while the whole beauty blogosphere started to bifurcate. There were bloggers who became obvious sellouts who re-published press releases and featured anything that they got for free, which caused readers to be suspicious of ALL of us. And then there were others who turned to video blogging, and tutorials of complicated eye makeup that I'd never wear in real life. I started to doubt my niche (honest, conversational product reviews and a peek into my life) and eventually I took longer and longer breaks from posting. I finally realized it just wasn't my passion anymore and decided to officially end things.

I've since become obsessed with DIY...helped along by the lack of good furniture resources in Hawaii, and the fact that we're fixing up a vacation rental along with our own house. I've stepped back into the blogging arena and I'm LOVING it, but I know those old doubts and annoyances are going to creep back in eventually. I'm just promising myself that this time I'll deal with it better.

Sorry for the novel...but you definitely touched on something I can totally relate to! Hang in there and know that there are PLENTY of us who love your blog and love YOU! xoxo

Well said, I blog because I enjoy it. I try not to get caught up in the comparison game. It is a process and you really do have to call on your better angels at times, but the minute this stops being fun for me and turns into an anxiety provoking and jealousy making endeavor it will be over for me. Thanks for this great post.

This is such great advice - especially about being careful not to check numbers too much. I only check once a day, but probably would be best once a week! I have learned not to be jealous of others who started after me and completely passed me up - I've befriended them and they brought me more followers. I have been able to help them. I have never had advertising, giveaways, or link parties. I want followers SOLELY because they want to be there, not because I give them something. And that works for me. If I started that other stuff, it would be a job. I don't want a job. I want to be a mommy :) You seem to be a very sweet, young women {hey, I just turned 40, so you're still young}.

Just taking a break from checking my stats to read your post... ha ha! I can relate to a lot of what you've written. Sometimes I feel like I've put a lot of effort into a post, and I'll get two comments a week later. Yet someone else will write, "Oh I have a headache today so I'm going to take a nap," and they'll receive 500 comments telling them how sorry they are about the blogger's headache. Okay, I'm exaggerating, but you know what I mean :)

Thank you for posting this :) I am a new blogger and sometimes find myself caught up in the numbers, but then I remind myself that I'm doing this because I enjoy it. Something may or may not come of it, but I'm enjoying the ride now :) Thanks for sharing!

Thank you for sharing these thoughts with us. I totally get the Numbers thing. It's so hard not to fall victim to that game but you're right...it leads to a bad place. I try not to check them much either (except the number of followers ;) because I make myself crazy otherwise!

And as for our lives not being "perfect", I was getting a little overwhelmed thinking everyone else had it all together except me. So I started "Truth Be Told Tuesdays" on my blog so we could all share just a little bit about the "truth" of our lives, not the blog-ready lives we portray ;).

Anyway, thanks for these great reminders! And happy belated blog birthday!

Happy 3 years! Thanks for being honest and sharing. I've really been struggling lately with whether or not blogging is "worth it" for me anymore. I started blogging because I LOVE crafting/decorating and sharing! Duh, we make all this cute stuff and we want to show people...but somedays, blogging can be so...depressing! I appreciate your honesty, a lot of what you said really hit home!

THANK YOU Sarah. This is a really great, honest, three year anniversary post :) I'm too much of a newbie to have gotten a nasty comment yet, but I appreciate your outlook on everything. I have a 'day job' so I don't have the time to devote to my blog that I'd like so I just try to focus on writing what makes ME happy.I admire your blog so much and its great to hear your honesty. Thanks!

Thanks for this post! Sometimes I feel a little down because not many people comment on my blog! I feel like I put a lot of work into it but I wonder sometimes if I actually exist - "Hello? Can you hear me now?" But I started out blogging just so my family who are far away can see what I've been up to and to share a little about my life here in Western WA. I know people are looking at it but I guess they just don't want to comment. Oh well. I've learned to quit worrying about it and just keep on keeping on!

Great post Sarah!! I'm a very new blogger, and so far I'm loving it. I feel a sense of accomplishment that I actually put a blog together and can add links and pictures and everything! Silly I know, but I am soooo not a computer person. You're words of wisdom will definitely help my stay on track and not get caught up in the "game". I just want this to be fun!! Happy anniversary!! And if you're bored, check out my blog http://catiescorner2.blogspot.com/ I have a recipe and great pic for homemade pop-tarts on it! Mmmm!!! : D

Sarah, thanks for this fabulous post. I stopped looking at my #s right after Blissdom and it was the best decision EVER! I still check when I have to answer someone about my stats, but otherwise I like blogging obliviously :-D. Great post and happy blogiversary!

I know all of the wonderful, kind, sweet, genuine comments I get outweigh the negative or just "Blah" comments.... I mean it is hard to read people sometimes through online text but the negative-ness is just simply unnecessary!

I loved your post. Congrats on 3 years. You should be proud, you've got an awesome blog and an awesome following and I can't believe anyone in their right mind would ever post negative comments about anything regarding your blog. You're so fun and so darn nice!I feel like I can relate to most of your posts and so it's enjoyable to read!

I loved reading this post, Sarah! So nice to know we all struggle with some of the same issues as bloggers/readers.

I do wonder if you feel much pressure to blog when you don't have the time, etc. You say you try and keep it your fun place, but does working with advertisers and companies put more pressure on you than you'd like at times? I'm still trying to figure out the best to handle advertising on my blog. I'd like to make some money at this, but I don't want to suck all of the fun out of it, and that kind of stuff can make it feel like work.

I appreciate your up-beat tone. Who wants to read a mopey blog? I Wish you didn't have to deal with the crazies. Who has time to be a hater, anyway? And really appreciate all of the great advice here!

Love your blog and have been a follower for quite a while...I agree with the lady who commented about putting a blog out there and getting two comments and the other blogger saying she has a headache and gets 30 comments...very discourging but I always try to remember that blogging should be fun not a chore. I can't tell you the last time I checked my numbers I always forget and anyway with babysitting the grands and working part time and trying to get projects done I just don't have the time to worry about it, which is a good thing!Nasty comments? I always remember my mother saying "If you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all"! A great 3 years and hope to see many more!Rondellps Thanks for this post it was great!

I started reading your blog about a year ago when I was searching for ways to be more frugal. It was a desperate time in my family's life and I found inspiration in your blog. I use my blog to journal things about our family. I love your optimism and it makes me feel energetic and happy when I read your posts. Thank you!

I can't begin to tell you how much I needed to hear this right now!I'm new still to blog land. I started my little blog in January. I have looked too much at the whole "numbers" part of it. 1000 followers don't happen over night. Certainly 11000 followers don't either. Thank you for being you and not being afraid to tell it like it is!!

This is like the 4th time this week I have heard "don't obsess about numbers" that really is a big problem for me. Thank you for the reminder, I will try harder! Love you and your blog sweetie-you are a huge encouragement and model a great attitude:)

Spot on, girl! Great post! I just recently wrote about the whole seeming perfect thing on my blog after losing a close friend. She read my blog and felt like she couldn't keep up with me. I had to explain to her exactly what you're saying. I think you'll appreciate this post if you get a chance to read it. It's my response to our ordeal after I nearly threw the blogging towel in: http://arlingtonmama.blogspot.com/2011/05/to-dispel-any-rumors.html?m=1

Everything you said describes how I feel sometimes. I am not a DIY blogger but a craft blogger. I had my blog before I even made any effort in having a working blog. I was scared and full of dout and thought no one will like the blog, it held me back. Then one night I was online reading one of my fav craft blogs cause i could not sleep I was dealing with major life changes. And it hit me I needed something to take my mind off this and reading craft blogs relaxed me so why not jump in and try a blog yourself, if I fail so be it. That night I made my first post. I had no followers, No comments, and visitors was no need to look at stats for a long long time lol. But my blog gave me a outlet it was not about others seeing it as much as having a place to express myself. I love card making and having a place to share my hobby even if only 2 people seen it made it fine with me. Then the day I got my first comment..lol I could not believe anyone would want to read my blog then I found I had followers, what...lol. Now almost year and 1/2 later I get the number game and the jelous feeling you can get. I have 44 followers its not alot but I hope they are there cause they like the blog. From day one I did not do give aways I know some do and that is a personal choice.Its a simple blog no fancy designs and yes the prefection thing is something hard to over come. But will say I have let that go. I have posted projects I dont like and is far for great but its me. I ma so not prefect. I have not had to deal with neg people yet we all support each others work and I keep it to myself if I dont like something. The way I see it expressing your style in DIY or crafts or fashion its all personal taste, and no one has the right to say its ugly or u hate it. If you dont like it just hit the back button...lol I will say blogging can comsume alot of your time. I am finding I am looking over house work cause I need to make a post or work on something to post and thinking of ideas. So I found it funny to have seen this post today..lol I am now thinking okay stop spending time worrying about posting all the time and more time cleaning...lol Thanks for sharing your thoughts I think 99.99% of bloggers get this.

Happy Anniversary! I actually stopped blogging because my skin was just not thick enough.

And the part about being jealous and finding out about that person's struggles? That is true to everyone you meet. Everyone. It is a good lesson to learn.

I'm a long time reader and am just thrilled at how "big" you've become. Keep doing what you are doing! And remember: for every one negative comments you have many more positive ones, and I never comment and am thinking positive things, so you can just bet there are others not commenting positive things.

Boundaries. It's all about boundaries. I told my kids there would always be someone smarter, prettier, more talented, etc., than them and there would always be someone lesser all those things, too, so don't get caught up in the self-comparison. Not healthy. It does crazy things to us.

I love that you are upbeat because it helps keep me going on downer-days. There was a blog I used to read religiously, but I stopped because she was always doing the comparison game and making comments about those nasty comments she would get or slam other 'nameless' bloggers. It became a battle zone blog and it just got old.

I think it's fun that you live in the same state as I do (and I wonder when you are having a Goodwill Hop again...). BTW, have you hit any Value World stores? My son and his girlfriend have gotten some great stuff at better prices.

Its funny, as I scrolled down to comment, there was the Blog Top Sites counter on the left with a big 2 next to it. Yep, you are the second best home and garden blog in America. Where am I? Number 300 and somethin'..Why am I looking? Because I am a blogger and its like I am trained to do it. I feel the pressure too and for an up and coming blogger like myself, I get what you are saying completely. Quite honestly, it was refreshing to hear YOU say it and it made me realize that we all aren't too different in terms of emotions when it comes to putting yourself out there.I know, for myself, I did the blog thing to help relieve some stress and it helped but now I look at thrift stores or dollar stores, heck even my basement storage JUST for things to transform for the blog. Is that a good thing? Maybe but sometimes it is a bit much.

I will say this, you are a huge inspiration to myself and many, many other bloggers. Thanks for your posts and your great ideas. Personally, I would still read your blog even if all you showed was the paint peeling off the walls....:)

Awesome post!! I know exactly what you're saying about The Numbers. I'm guilty of checking a few times/day and of being jealous of the Numbers other blogs have. It's hard when you put your heart & soul into the log you love ...and you can see that only 50 or so people view it each day. But, then again, that's 50 people!! ;). Now I'm focusing on putting out a good, witty blog (toot toot),visiting other blogs and letting the followers follow where they may.

I love your creativeness that you show on your blog but I love your sense of humour & how you keep it real even more.

Congrats on 3 years! Great post! I agree, blog cause you love it! I have some of the same feelings - especially because I have a full time career and compare myself to people that have the majority of the day to tweet, FB, blog, pin, etc... it's hard to step back, but great advice. many hugs!

Couldn't have said it better myself! I love your blog! It makes me laugh and smile otherwise I wouldn't want to read it! I love to see what you and other people can do with someone else's trash or on a very tight budget! It's a shame that some people don't see it that way and don't realize that words can hurt just like a physical blow. So, keep inspring me, making me laugh, and realizing that life is not perfect!

Luv your blog and your style. I read every post. One of my fav's is your reading nook, so clever. You have inspired me to roll up my sleeves and do things on my own instead of relying on my DH. Thanks so much for sharing your home and ideas. You are an inspiration.

I love reading your blog! I love that you're real (if you know what I mean). I really truly appreciate that you share the ups and downs.

Regarding blogs...I've gone round and round on this one but I've come to the conclusion that my blog is mainly a photojournal for family and friends to feel a part of our lives. There are so many times that I thought I could make it much more but I'm just not up to that task! Kudos to you for turning it into a business!

I love your blog and have told many of my friends about it. I think a large part of what makes it successful is that you are so real. I love your sense of humor, and how you post about things that don't go perfectly. I recently bought my first home and I have gotten so many ideas from you! You are helping people out there that you don't even know. So thanks...from all of us!!

Wow, thanks for sharing this. I too vacillate constantly about my feelings about blogging. And the numbers. Oh the numbers. I think blogging and reading the blogs of others has really challenged me to contentment. I love your upbeat attitude, keep writing!

I really know nothing about blogs; other than I enjoy yours. I love the way you write and I enjoy seeing all your projects. But after reading your blog this morning; I really appreciate your maturity and your well written philosophy on how you handle your life.

Thanks for this Sarah! I don't blog, but read a number of them, and only recently did I realize it was making me feel "less than" when looking at everyone's seemingly perfect homes and lives. Thanks for keeping it real!

I can totally understand all that even though I don't have a blog. I think the criticism would be too much for me. I am addicted to reading blogs, and I have to cut back now & then because I find myself getting depressed that I'm not as talented, beautiful, as good of a mom, etc. Comparison is definitely a joy stealer!! I don't understand why some people feel the need to spout such nasty things on someone else's blog! I love yours! Keep up the good work and keep deleting those nasty comments. You rock!

Big hugs to you, Sarah! This was spot on. :) I don't look at my numbers very often either (though maybe I should). Too depressing! Thank you for the great reminder to focus on the good stuff and not get weighed down by comparisons!

I started a blog and reading blogs to find like-minded, kindred spirits. So if a blog disses others or if someone is negative, you are right to dismiss it. (It's the beauty of the blogosphere, we have the control, we can do that, unlikr with family members, ahem, inlaws...lol, we're totally stuck with them. ) Let's keep it positive, life's too short.

I myself love it when a blogger shows their vulnerability, that they're not perfect. Like your door drama. Because you recovered from that dilemma. And you learned and grew. You seem much more human and approachable and we can relate more. And having a sense of humour is indispensable for me. That is the one thing that attracts me the most to people. The ability to laugh it up!

(And go ahead and show pictures of your husband's socks, I'm sure you can do something beautiful with them, it's all in the styling.)

Thanks for being so honest Sarah. I agree completely. Especially w/ the "perfect pictures" it really does make one feel like less. I can't explain why but it does. I'm an Etsy seller so I know how crucial perfect pictures of products need to be from a selling standpoint but I found myself translating it over to my blog & its recently felt like a very unwanted chore.

I actually wrote my latest post based on how I've felt I've been chasing those numbers or feeling the pressure to write perfect posts & its just plain exhausting & I can't keep up anymore & I know that's ok in my book. Your post was very timely for me. Thank you... :-)

I'm struggling lately with whether or not to keep my blog going. Knowing that you have the same feelings and struggles sometimes with blogging that I do (and I'm sure many others as well)makes me feel more...normal.

Happy 3 years blogging! I can totally relate to everything you wrote here. Especially about the haters. I had a very personal blog several years ago.... and was left so many nasty comments, it took the joy of writing out of me. Then a couple of years ago I realized how much I missed it and came back. I realized how much I missed writing about the things I love. So I started a new one, and decided if someone doesn't like it that is their problem not mine. And it's their opinion and I won't let it bother me.

First off I want to say thank you. You are one of the first blogs that I started following (ok, stalking). It motivated me to start doing all the things to our home that I was dreaming about. Yours is one of the ones to inspire me to start my first blog! I love how honest you are because I too had all those worries going into it. I'm so glad to know all those feeling are ok and it's ok if my blog doesn't take off, I'm doing it for me. To share the things I'm proud of and love.Happy Blogiversary!All the bestJeri

Hi There! Thank you so much for your encouraging words today. I just began blogging and can already see how easy it would be to get caught up in what others might be thinking of you, your blog, your home, etc...and lose your original focus of enjoying your home with the loved ones who share it with you!

I struggle a lot with comments. My house blog hasn't been around long enough to get too many nasty comments, but I've received a few on my personal blog. The really sad thing? I DON'T have a thick skin, they DO bother me and they do get me to change the offending post and make me second guess and censor my writing all the time. I am starting to learn that I need to stick up for myself and ignore the nasty comments, even if that means not allowing them to show up on my site. It's a hard thing when I hate censorship to begin with!

Thanks for this post. It's comforting to know that other bloggers go through the same things!

I have always loved you and your blog, but it was after the post you did after going to the blogger audience Nate Show that I loved you even more. The post about your design style. After leaving that show with all the high end designers - I felt the same way you did about my own style - but you wrote about it so well. I was applauding you right in my kitchen as I read that post. This post is no different- as I feel many of the things you brought up and now feel better that I am not the only one. You are the best because you stay as you are - yourself and never put on any airs. You share that and your talent in such an engaging way. Love you Thrifty Decor Chick!

If I were Oprah, I would shout to the world that YOUR blog is one of my FAVORITE THINGS. I check in all the time, and I'm always impressed, inspired, and entertained. I spend a lot of time in blogland, but there are only two or three blogs that I ALWAYS check, and yours is one of them. Thanks for sharing your home and your life. I really respect the balance you strike between sharing your life and keeping some things private. I really respect that about you. Keep up the good work!!

Oh girl, and this is why we LOVE you. It's such a battle to ward off those feelings, isn't it? It's crazy because since college, I haven't really struggled with those all those crazy, ugly feelings UNTIL blogging. There's just something about it that brings it out, and it's so hard when it's a virtual, online world. I love the real life relationships because so many of those things can be put to rest, but that's having the best of both worlds, isn't it? You are a delight, and encouragement, a value to SO many of us!! :) I'm so honored to call you a friend.

Great post! I enjoy reading your blog and others. I think of blogs as a way to share and receive ideas and tips. I hope to start one some day too. My passion is sewing and embroidery. I may photograph an item I've made to share..but I don't photograph the mess in my sewing room that I made while making it or other areas of my home that may not have had my attention because I was busy sewing. I see perfect blog photos as the same.You do a great job. Always remember blogging is for fun and should not be stressful.

I am simply dumbfounded, by the emotions, experiences, & struggles of my own, that you thoroughly raked through so impeccably, in this post. You turned over every single stone. I really thought I was the only one who went down these ugly roads in my head. But I realize by reading this, it's more part of a blogger's world than I knew. I can flip 6 times in a day, from loving the thrill of spreading creativity, inspiration and blogging, to absolute discouragement and thoughts of throwing in the towel. I am printing this baby out, to whip out and read as needed! Thank you!!

Just read todays post and wanted to say CONGRATS on 3 years! That's great! I do want to say that this is my 'go to' blog. I ALWAYS check your blog...daily. I do however have to admit that I don't always comment. I'm just a quiet person in general and just don't talk much. It is a big job to keep something like this up and I just wanted to let you know I appreciate you taking the time to give us inspiration and a laugh or two at the same time. Thanks!

I love your blog. You are on my google homepage and I love reading every post. It's well thought out, informative and funny. I'm a failed blogger 1 post, working, owning a cake shop and trying to blog was too much ... but my facebook is full of pictures etc and it's so hard not to look at my page numbers. I can relate. good luck! if you like cake pics check out www.RobinsNestCakery.com or Robin's Nest Cakery in Kenosha WI or on facebook.

Everything you said has been true for me. It is hard when you(I am) are a driven creative person to feel like you have done enough sometimes. Or for me, it is the comparing myself to others problem!!! I am usually not the jealous type, but I am always endlessly trying to stack up to other people! I have so got to get over this. It never works. Anyway, now I am rambling- but this post was really good food for thought for me so thank you! (have a great weekend, i am off to clean out the garage, and I am so excited! - strange I know!)

I agree with you. I don't blog for any reason except myself and it is irregular and tiny at best. But I hope I never worry about the numbers.

And good for you for deleting the hate. Yeah, it's a free world and people can try to send you hate, but it doesn't mean you have to accept it. And blogs are not news, so not everyone's opinion's need to be heard. In the end it is still your place for your voice.

Congratulations and a happy 3 years on your blog! Blogging has definitely got it's share of ups and downs and it's harder to shake off the 'down' parts when you invest so much of yourself in your blog. I'm glad you wrote this post. There are so many of us bloggers who need to be reminded that we're not alone in feeling like this!Cheers!

Thank you for writing this! I hope I internalize your lessons. I've also been blogging for three years and let my March "blogiversary" slip by intentionally because my stats aren't where I'd like them to be after being at this for so long. I'm almost embarrassed by it, and I know I shouldn't be because I've "met" some lovely people along the way and learned so much. I need to stop checking those friggin' stats! Congrats on the success you've had over the past three years!

Thank you! A friend shared your blog and it is in my early edition iPad app to read every day! I love it! But really thank you for this, you are being the real that you talk about, and it was good for me. I too am a blogger, but a new one w only 20 followers and no idea how to make it more..... And I get down (because I hope to write a book one day) and so I let it all get me down, so this was a wonderfully refreshing post.....thank you!!!

I identify with so much of what you said! I can't stand those feelings of "less than" so I realized early on I couldn't sit and compare. And here is the thing I don't think people get. Magazines and tv shows have always just showed us the story they want us to see, why would blogland be any different? Great service you did for a bunch of bloggers today Sara, thanks!

I love your blog! Thanks for your insights on blogging, very interesting. I don't have a blog, but have many bookmarked and love to read them and get ideas. I will certainly comment more often, from now on. Keep up the good work.

I love your blog. You inspired me to start my own. Being a new blogger is tough though. Working full time doesn't give much free time to devote to decorating and blogging. I find myself often wondering how people do it, and why I can't be better. Thanks for sharing your experience. Love your blog, style, humour and you. Keep it up, for every hater there are more of us that love you.

You've chosen a good path for blogging. I used to feel Inferior while visiting certain blog posts ... but I decided to take a different tactic. My goal in blogging now is twofold: to enjoy the things I blog about, and to spread the love everywhere I go. That's been a good balance for me. I "follow" every single blog I visit, whether it's "my thing" or not, unless their values are different from mine. My take on it: it costs me absolutely nothing to follow a blog, and it leaves a nice blessing for the blogger. Thanks for sharing from your heart; it's a good talk for all of us, especially the beginners like me.

Happy Birthday! :) Your blog is one of my very faves. Thanks for sharing your life, your creativity and your fun personality. I'm astonished that you have to deal with negative comments. (see how naive I am?) Can't even imagine why someone do that. Obviously, they have WAY too much time on their hands! Keep on deleting them.. I don't want to read them either! LOL ((hugs))

Oh God I'm totally frightened of EVERY comment just because of the nasties. Every time I get notified of new comments (not very often since I have a silent audience) I freeze in horror, even though 99,9% of them are encouraging, funny, kind and/or helpful... I thought it would get worse when I started blogging in a language I only had started to learn three months before, but it actually got better. I could mentally hide behind the language barrier: "If they think all this bad stuff about me it's because I'm bad at Spanish and that makes me look more stupid than I am."

Blogging has taught me so much (like, duh, Spanish), I love it so much and I've done it for 15 years, but I NEVER get used to comments.

Sarah, what a great post! Congratulations on 3 years! I am a reader, not a blogger, and TDC is the first blog I ever visited! I didn't even know what a "blog" was! I agree with all your points even as a reader. For the past 2 years or so I've checked your site daily, but I DON'T expect new posts daily, okay? I continually return to TDC because of the quality of your work and your style...and your humor...and willingness to be transparent about the messes and how you fix them....oh! and how you encourage me to take projects on! I look forward to more years "with" you!

This is an EXCELLENT post!!!! I agree with everything you talked about. I had to pull back from bloggers that I was close to. Being around them made me feel just plane old BAD. I'm not a fan of the phrase "fake it until you make it" and when I encounter people where that is their motto, I have to run far away from them.

I can really say a lot in this comment, but I'll spare you and your readers! Wishing you a happy third blogday! And hoping for many more! Love ya chica!

Thanks for the great post. As a new blogger,this really hit home! I can't decide what I really want my blog to be. I work fulltime outside the home, so I try to squeeze in projects when I can and do posts when I can. I'm trying to not let the pressure to post get in the way of enjoying decorating and making things for my home.

As a blog reader (and I read TONS of them - it's a little sick...), I like it when blogs are more personable. I find myself turned off by perfect photos and content that looks like it came out of a magazine. I read blogs because I feel connected to the writers. I like when bloggers share mishaps and personal details. If I don't see personality in a blog after I begin following it, I'll normally delete it from my Google Reader. If I want magazine photos and content, I'll read an online mag or pick one up in the store.

I love your blog more than anything. I am addicted to your projects, your creativity, and I love your writing style! :)You make me laugh and give me just the pick me up I need everyday. I check your blog (way too much!) and am proud to be a follower! I will follow everyday until you move on. Thanks for all you do for us! I'm sure you have influenced my home in so many ways!

Yours was the first blog I stumbled upon and remains one of my favorites. Women should be building each other up. To do otherwise is to put ones self down. A favorite saying of mine is; "Those that can, do and those that can't, talk about it. You are a real doer in the best sense of the word, and keeps you so real to other women like us. You are honest in your life and there is no greater compliment. Do not allow self doubters and know it alls to rain on your parade of a happy and fulfilling life. Keep up the great work. I really enjoy it.

I, like the hundreds, if not thousands before me, love your blog too. I would agree that you are right up there at the top of the blog world and that is where people like to take cheap shots. Just know that it's your position of success that most of us love and strive for, but for the insecure, it makes them angry. I always, always enjoy your posts.

I appreciate you and all those other woman who take the time to share ideas, how-to, tips, recipes, and re-dos. Takes gumption to do all that and takes a little bravery to expose yourself that way. Keep up the great work you do.

You are such a doll! I just want to hug you after reading this! I cannot imagine anyone leaving you any kind of negative or mean reponse. You are soooo talented and creative. You are so kind to share all of your talents and especially the oops parts. I have learned so much from reading your blog and I have laughed out loud many times. You bring me joy on a daily basis, and I thank you for that!

Your blog is awesome. You are awesome. You are a daily inspiration. Truly. I admit that I am jealous of you, but I don't get crabby about it, I just say to myself, "what would TDC do?" Thanks for your hard work!

As I scrolled down and read, I was commenting to each new thing in my head. If I typed all those thoughts out, it would make for a REALLY long comment! So I'll just say, ditto. Love coming here everyday. Thanks for being one of my daily time-suckers. :o)

Great post! I know exactly what you mean about numbers and comparisons. It doesn't really bother me when I read big successful blogs that have been around for awhile but sometimes it can be discouraging when I see a new blog pop up and within a month they have a following three times bigger than the one that it has taken me a year and a half to get to. But then I remember that I started blogging just as a fun hobby and I know I will never have the time to devote to it in order to make it profitable so what does it matter how many followers I have?

I agree with your stance on deleting negative comments. I go by Thumper's advice, "If you can't say something nice, don't say nothin' at all." If it is constructive criticism that's one thing but there is no reason to comment just to say that you hate it. So if you don't like a comment on your own blog you have every right to delete it. The only thing I hate is when a blogger feels the need to write an entire post about every single negative comment they get.

Thanks for this! You've always been so helpful Sarah. Even though we have blogs about totally different things, your tips on blogging have been such a big help. Thank you for sharing your DIY adventures with us, and thank you for not being stingy with your tips. It's not like you HAVE to share certain things (or anything for that matter), with us, but you do! I love reading your blog! Thanks for everything!

In the world of blogging, your blog was the very FIRST one I found (that was 2ish years ago), and one of the blogs I STILL read to this day! Since then, I have seen a lot in this "world' and have put off starting a blog of my own for many reasons, some that you have said. Anyway, just wanted to encourage you that your blog is one of fun, great ideas and authenticity!!! Just perfect! Keep it up!

As someone fairly new to blogging, I appreciate the tips. Low #s are a kick to my self-esteem, high #s make my day. By living and dying by those, I forget that for the first time in a long time, I really like what I'm doing. Many thanks for the post.

I started blogging in Nov. 2007 because my brother bugged me to death to write one. I didn't know what I was doing. I named my blog "Leave It To Davis" because if anything could be screwed up, leave it to me to screw it up in a BIG way. As I sat down to blog about past mistakes, something got a hold on me and said "NO". " Blog about things you are thankful for..." It was just a little voice in my head, but I listened. It is amazing how if you are listing things you are thankful for, how much happier you are than when you dwell on the negative. My life changed because of my blog. I only had family reading it, but I didn't care. It was helping me feel better about myself.

As the years have gone by, I have used my blog as therapy when I was angry about some injustice. Being vocal about it, even though I wasn't really being "vocal" helped me get out the uglies and not dwell on it anymore.

I have shown how my kids have grown, my grandkids have grown, how I have changed my decor (inspired by YOU), and shared my love of music and movies. I only have 7 "followers", but I don't write the posts for them. I write them for me and my kids.

I have had people stop by and make comments....all have been so kind. I have actually made a few friends in different countries. I follow their blogs faithfully. I, like you, love my blog and my blogger friends. Even though I am small, it means a great deal to me. I made a book out of the first three years posts for my kids to have when I am gone.

Your blog was one I stumbled across clicking on next blog, next blog....while I was looking to see what others had on their blogs. This was over a year ago. I am still following. I ADORE you blog, and told my daughter about it, and she, too follows faithfully. We talk about what you have on your posts very often. We don't know you, but we LOVE you! We thank you for all your expert advice. I just redecorated my bathroom and posted pics. I am redecorating my kitchen now and am painting my small hutch BLACK. How you have inspired!!! Keep up the great work and know you are truly admired for your work and loved for you warm, funny personality!!!! Your blogger friend, Cindy

Sarah (I know you didn't write this so I would say this) your blog is MY FAVORITE of all the blogs I read. You do such a great job, you are funny, your ideas are fantastic. I am so happy I 'discovered' you last December! And thank you for all you do.

Great post. With my 10 followers, I'm not sure I have too much to worry about but it's a nice reminder about what some of my favorite more successful bloggers go through on a regular basis. Thanks for being so open and honest!

AMEN, sister is RIGHT! I totally feel the same way. When I get a negative comment it can really hurt. If it is super-negative I delete it too. But, the in-between ones which can sometimes hurt just the same, I normally print. Thanks for encouraging us and thanks for keeping up your blog. I enjoy your site and all of your creativity! THANK YOU!

Sarah I can't even remember now how long ago I found your blog while googling bead board :) But I check your blog every day to read your posts and the posts in your links! So much fun. You inspired me to redo our stairs and all your blog posts and pics about it were just what I needed to get my husband on board with it. Don't let the haters get you down!

I have never read your blog before (my sister forwarded this to me) and now I am hooked! I too blog (not about decorating but rather I publicly humiliate myself through my stories about mommyhood) Thank you for your honesty. It is hard and it can be a daily grind. That being said your blog has inspired me to do some much needed updating! You have a new follower ;)

Congratulations to my favorite blogger. A couple years ago I stumbled upon your blog and I have been inspired and entertained ever since. By the way, you were the the first blog I had ever viewed and enjoyed, and so I blame you completely for the addict I have become!! Thank you for all of your hard work.

AMEN!!! Good for you for deleting the nasty comments! Some people are just mean and nasty and enjoy trying to bring others down to their level! Your blog is the very first one I ever started reading and I LOVE it! Love your creativity! Can't wait to read it every morning!

AMEN!!! Good for you for deleting the nasty comments! Some people are just mean and nasty and enjoy trying to bring others down to their level! Your blog is the very first one I ever started reading and I LOVE it! Love your creativity! Can't wait to read it every morning!

Congratulations on three years of blogging! I don't comment as much as I should (I'm really trying to get better about that) but I love all of your projects. Thank you for opening up your home to all of us and sharing your creativity. Cheers to three more years!

It's funny how the people that know the least about you, always have the most to say. Haters don't really hate you, they hate themselves because you're a reflection of what they wish to be. I think you have an awesome blog, please keep doing what your doing!

Congratulations of three years of a great blog. The growth you have made (is that english sorry non-native here) is amazing but very well deserved.I am with you on all of them. Especially the numbers, they drive me crazy. So I am going to follow your advice and leave them be for some time.Thanks for all the inspiration, help, encouragement and views into the real life!

This is a great and oh-so-helpful post. You nailed it right on the head. I love it and think that every...and I mean EVERY...blogger and follower should read this. Thanks for sharing and putting it in perspective - I couldn't agree with you more. It may sound silly, but if I ever get down about blogging, I always listen to Strip Me by Natasha Bedingfield (Take a listen if you have time). :) High Five and Happy 3 Years!

Congratulations on three years! I am a frequent reader, but have not commented before, but I just wanted to say that everything you said resounds with me, even though I am not a blogger! Thanks for sharing your home and your experiences. I absolutely loved the post on the door mishap, because I totally would have been more concerned about the crazies and the hole than anything else. The finished product was pretty fabulous though!

Sarah,You are right about this being overwhelming for both parties. I am not a blogger but a reader and it makes my head spin too. I want you to know up front that your house and family are beautiful. As a reader I do sometimes suffer from discontentment with my own home looking at blogs, magazines,the pottery barn catalog etc. We appreciate your showing us your failures and messes. Thank you for being yourself and remember not everyone is going to like you. I think your great and so does God!

Happy Birthday, TDC! I adore your blog. You are one of the reasons I started blogging back in January. Being new, I totally identify with the Numbers game. I get all excited to have several views, only to find half of them are from spammers! Still working on that. Thanks for all your projects and positive outlook on life and broken glass!

I have read EVERY single one of your posts since about February but I have never left a comment. At least I don't think I have. I rarely comment on anything b/c I feel like I sound ridiculous :p But I will come out of my hiding and say I love your blog and haters will be haters no matter what. I love that you have gotten past them and have kept going in spite of them. THANKS for the inspiration and good reads!

Your blog is great and I enjoy reading it - sorry you get haters, but that's part of being a celebrity (: Seriously, I agree with Staci above. I have an itty bitty blog, too, and I just do it for me and mine. It's nice to get feedback on some things, but really, I just do it to please myself and have fun. I can't monetize it - I don't have the time or talent for that. But for those of you who do, I think it's great and my advice is to just keep on keepin' on, sista!

Dude. Seriously? Your blog ALWAYS makes me smile and laugh. You're just too darn cute for your own good. And, psst, let me tell you a little secret. I usually skim through most of my "favorite" blogs and looks at the pictures and then go back and read if I'm feelin' crazy. But your blog? I always take the time to read it! You could do a little victory dance if'n you want to... ;) Anywho, just giving you a little shout-out-picker-upper, because you definitely deserve it!

Congrats with your 3 years of blogging! I´m new at this blogging and just started a few weeks ago and finding out how this works bit by bit. This helps to put everything in perspective.Thank you for your honesty, RESPECT! love your blog!

Sarah, I can't think of blog that has inspired me more than yours. When I stumbled upon your site about 9 months ago, I felt I had died and gone to heaven. Finally, a girl with power tools that I could understand and learn from. I read every post of yours I had missed and told anyone who would listen, about your site. I can't imagine what nasty things anyone could say about what you do. I hope you know that their problems are within themselves. You are so much fun to read and you have taught me so many things. (And I'm a lot older than you.) I am no longer embarrassed to say, "I got it at Goodwill!" :) Thank you for letting readers like me into your home and for sharing all your great projects. I am known for being creative, but you have sent my creativity soaring. Please believe me when I say, you're the best!Sincerely, Jeannie

Great post! Lately I can see how blogging can be sort of like "high school". I try to choose to look at the positive aspects but sometimes as a new blogger it is hard. Thanks for the words of wisdom!! :)

Great post and great points. I respect the fact that you don't share much about your son (I'm amazed at how much other bloggers do share!). I'm soo OK with you deleting the negative comments. It's your 'home' here and you are allowed to ask rude people to 'leave'. I peek at my numbers every other day... and I try very hard not to compare myself to other bloggers. I need to blog for myself and grow at my own pace!

I love reading your blog! It always makes me smile! Keep up the great work.

As a fairly new blogger (Just passed 9k hits today! woo hoo!) I am happy to say that I haven't had any nasty comments yet. And sometimes, I even get one that totally makes my day!! I've had people tell me that I add depth to their day, that they are learning about art! Those are the ones that really keep me going on those cranky days when I feel like a blogging Failure- usually because I'm comparing myself to people who are bigger, better, faster...

Agree with all you've said here and I think most bloggers feel similar feelings alot of the time. I, too, hardly ever look at numbers...and it is so freeing. (my blog is not that big, but the emotional dynamics are all the same)

Why anyone has to be nasty is beyond me, so I just wanted to come out of "lurkerdom" to tell you how much I enjoy your blog! My little blog (that I'm seriously neglecting right now) is mainly so family and friends can keep up. If people don't like it, then don't read it...that's MHO! Thanks for keeping us entertained and inspired!

I love, love, love your blog and so glad I found it with a google search looking for a bead board island and I LOVE YOURS. How cool that is one of the projects cutie Nate included (and how cool he included you!) You deserve it. Thank you for all the time you spend on this blog. Sending you a hug!

Oh, how I love this post. I have been thinking all these things, but just never blogged it.

I have to say when I initially started blogging I too fell into the trap of having it be all consuming (it doesn't help that I work in marketing) So my brain was always on ... trying to find new ways to get the blog "out there", to think if creative and witty posts. Then I would be super obsessive about my stats. I have finally "let it go". My biggest goal was to get at least 20 followers and I'm only four away, so slowly but surely.

I have to say since I've started blogging I've had to keep the green-eyed monster in check more than once. But I always remember...The only people who are perfect are the ones that I don't well.

One thing you did miss, and the thing I love BEST about your blog, is the fact that you actually read and reply to emails and comments. That means so much to us as commentors. Because I once sent a popular blogger an email and NEVER received a response. I have to say it hurt, and it hurt more that she brags about how she answers emails and responds to comments.

So, thank you again for making your readers feel special and for inspiring us everyday. :-)

Hi Sarah! I found your blog 3 yrs ago & read it on a regular basis but have never posted a comment until today. I'm a lurker I guess but THANK YOU!

I'm disabled & all of the blogs that I read mean so much to me! You have expanded my world & I'm always dreaming of things I can do "when I get better"! I'm sure there are many more like me so think of them when times are tough and know you are touching so many people.

You are so talented & blessed to have such a wonderful way to share your gifts! Don't let a few uglies get you down. Feel sorry for them. Think of the awful lives they must have if that is all they have to do or say. And smile BIG when you hit delete! Take their small little voices away...who needs them anyway. :))

I am new to the blogging world and haven't had a hater post yet, but I know it will come. I am so hormonal today that if someone did leave one, I would C-R-Y! My plan is to delete them just like you do. I have noticed that they fester, like you said, when I have read other blog comments. People are CRAZY with their negativity. CURAAAZEEEE!

So, my question is, did you get more obsessed with the stats once it became your job? I am obsessed with stats somewhat, but it is just with the excitement of knowing that people 1/2 way around the world are actually reading what I write! It's so COOL! It's new for me, so I hope my number of followers gets bigger, but just knowing that I have 9 followers makes me HAPPY!

Oh my goodness! I JUST posted about the same thing Wednesday. I make craft videos for a site and get nasty comments sometimes. Some are quite funny and I can't believe people get upset about crafting, some hurt because they are personal. I've just learned that some people will always dislike you and always make comments but what I do with those comments and how I deal with them is up to me. Thank you so much, again, for your post. It was wonderful.

Very well said! While it is great to know that others are reading, seeing and appreciating what we share on our blogs, if the only reason we're doing it is for the attention, it's very easy to become disillusioned about blogging. I view having a blog as just another creative outlet for me to express my decorating style and a few tidbits about my life. In turn, I get so much inspiration from so many others who enjoy many of the same things I do. As long as we don't let our blogs take over & become something stressful, it's a win-win! And whenever we want to, we simply STOP. Thanks for all your inspiration, visiting here is always so much fun! :)

This post is the EXACT reason I read your blog, and ONLY your blog. Sure, I surf around occasionally and look at other sites, but I don't subscribe to any others. You're real, honest and real honest! I feel like I could sit down and have a cup of coffee with you. Keep doing what you're doing - we love your blog!

You are so awesome Sarah! This post was just what I needed. I spent a few hours surfing around blog land last night and was totally depressed afterwards about how inadequate I am, which is totally crappy! Thank you for the reminder to keep it all in perspective. Keep blogging, sister!

HiDon't know anything about blogging except I like to read them. Some are good, some ok, but for heavens sake, what in the world is up with people leaving nasty comments? I really don't actually "follow" anyone but you. You are honest, creative, get a lot of your stuff from Home Goods and Goodwill, so I feel a bond....LOL. And you work hard at your family life, and your home, and if a sock or the Bub's toy or a pizza box accidently gets into a picture, that makes it all the more honest for me. I don't want to follow someone who is lying and trying to portray perfection. I want someone who is more like me. Except you are way more proficient with power tools. I really aspire to that. And wish I were young again with your energy. Thanks for the post. Loved it because it is just true and powerful. Don't change. Billy Joel and I love you just the way you are.

Happy Bloggerversary!3 years is a long old haul! I'm getting close to year one and still loving doing it.Thank you for your wise words. I adore your blog and your style! (I will have stair mice...I will!)I did become slightly obsessed with the numbers game, but I've come to think as long as I get one read a day I'm happy! (Even if it is just him indoors or my Mum!):D

Your post is so well put and a great reminder to keep things in perspective, not just in blog world, but in life. I cannot imagine why people feel the need to be mean. Life is so precious and there are too many wonderful things and people to think about, get involved with and enjoy. For what it's worth, I really enjoy your blog, your projects, your ideas, your sense of humor and your transparency. Keep it up....you're doing great!Ruth

I have just discovered your blog recently and I LOVE IT! You have such personality and I LAUGH when I read your blogs. I look forward for your posts! I love that you keep it real, it makes me happypants!

Thanks so much for this post.I follow so many blogs for my job that usually I just jump past those without pictures or design ideas. This one caught my attention and kept it, since I just got the nerve to start a little blog of my own a few weeks ago. Your reflections and advice were just what I needed at the beginning of this process, to help keep it all in perspective. I started off posting with a bang, but have neglected it the past week or so. You mentioned your blog being your escape...I am so going to try to do that!Thanks!Terry

Thank you for being so candid....I enjoyed reading your thoughts....I am old enough to be your mother, but have just been amazed at the blogging world. I have grown and learned so much....wish this had been around when I was your age. I would have done things so differently. Mostly, I am amazed at you bloggers energy! Keep up the great work Honey!

I love reading your blog, I get it through email every time you post. I really admire your honesty in this post and think it must have been hard to write, I feel like I know you from reading so many of your posts....so look out anyone that makes any unhelpfull comments, don't mess with my friends!! Thanks for all the inspiration, entertainment and just plain enjoyment you have given me! Please keep on with your super style, your readers really enjoy it. take care, VBg

Let me start by saying congrats!I love your blog and I have been reading your page for awhile now. You inspired me to blog:) I just started last week and I am sure that I have a lot to learn and I know it will be tough but I enjoy reading yours & others so I know that as bloggers we all have each others back...LOL!I just wanted to stop by & say thanks and congrats on many many more years of blogging....hopefully for the both of us;) Have a great day!!!

wow, too many comments to read, I don't know how you do it. I'm going to say that I was in a space a few months back that I was so jealous of other blogs, their homes, what they could get, I had to delete half of the people I subscribed. In the end I realize while my life is not perfect, it's mine and being envious is not good for me, and not fair to my family and my life. You certainly bring very good points and that's why I still follow you

I've just started getting a bit more serious about blogging. Thank you for this post! I've felt some of these things already and I didn't like it. I was wondering why I was letting my want to share shape how I felt about myself if few people respond. Come to find out, I'm human! Thanks! :-)

I enjoy your blog and thankful for your willingness to post so openly.